Forced Modernization in Drylands: Socio-Ecological System Disruption in the Altiplano of San Luis Potosí, Mexico

Abstract

The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) recognizes desertification as a serious global problem in arid and semi-arid zones. It is necessary to conduct research on, and inform stakeholders of, the processes related to the degradation of these drylands before it is too late. The purpose of this chapter is to describe some threats caused by disruptive socio-ecological system and landscape transformations in the drylands of San Luis Potosí (SLP), a state in north-central Mexico. This is due to a process of forced modernization, which crystallizes from a vision aimed at increasing productivity through the incorporation of disruptive technologies and overproduction of renewable energies. The problem of this modernization model is that it disregards the integrity and functions of the socio-ecological system itself. In the case of the central plateau of SLP, known as the “altiplano,” the state government and transnational entrepreneurs appear to view the issue of modernization through the logic of bringing progress and development to a space that they view as otherwise empty, unoccupied, and with low economic value. Therefore, implementation of projects is promoted, aiming to turn these “empty spaces” into productive areas, but also culturally and ecologically decontextualizing the traditional livelihoods of these drylands.